Public Spaces Protection Order renewed for Singleton Lake

Ashford Borough Council has renewed a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) for Singleton Lake.

PSPOs allow councils to tackle anti-social behaviour which takes place in a specific, geographical area (as opposed to criminal behaviour orders and injunctions which are directed at individuals). A PSPO covers particular activities, meaning that anyone carrying them out in an area under one of these orders can be prosecuted or issued with a £100 fixed penalty notice.

The previous PSPO for Singleton Lake was introduced in March 2023 and has now been renewed and amended in line with the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, and following a public consultation which closed in March 2026.

Amendments to the order include changes to wording to make them clearer and bring them in line with other PSPOs within the borough. The order will also aim to address behaviours that have been identified as causing nuisance or harm to the community, such as lighting of fires, erecting of non-permanent structures, depositing of controlled waste, and other activities that undermine public safety and wellbeing. 

Cllr Katrina Giles, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Health at Ashford Borough Council, said: "Renewing the PSPO for Singleton Lake demonstrates our dedication to keeping the area safe and pleasant for everyone. We listened carefully to residents during the consultation and have made changes to ensure the order is clear, fair, and effective in tackling issues that matter most to the community." 

These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to reduce ASB, improve community safety, and maintain a welcoming environment for local residents and visitors to the area.

More information on the updated PSPO as well as other active PSPOs within the borough can be found on our dedicated Public Spaces Protection Order web page.